2017: Schweikert Voted To Disapprove An FCC Rule That Required Internet Service Providers To Receive Permission Before Selling Consumer Data. In March 2017, Schweikert voted for legislation that would, according to Congressional Quarterly, "overturn the internet privacy rule. [...] The rule is controversial because most internet firms such as Google and Facebook are regulated by the Federal Trade Commission, which allows companies to use consumers' personal data to sell targeted advertising unless the customer objects. The FCC required internet service providers such as Comcast and AT&T to get permission in advance to do the same thing. [...] A CRA can be used for a limited time in the new Congress to repeal regulations issued toward the end of the Obama administration under a resolution of disapproval, which requires the president's signature to take effect." The House agreed to the resolution by a vote of 215 to 205. The legislation was signed into law by the president. [House Vote 202, 3/28/17; Congressional Quarterly, 3/9/17; Congressional Actions, S. J. Res. 34]
CNBC: "Congress Just Cleared The Way For Internet Providers To Sell Your Web Browsing History." According to CNBC, "Congress just cleared the way for internet providers to sell your web browsing history. Internet providers now just need a signature from President Trump before they're free to take, share, and even sell your web browsing history without your permission. The House of Representatives passed a resolution today overturning an Obama-era FCC rule that required internet providers to get customers' permission before sharing their browsing history with other companies. The rules also required internet providers to protect that data from hackers and inform customers of any breaches." [CNBC, 3/28/17]
The FCC Earlier Delayed Implementation Of The Rule. According to Congressional Quarterly, "The GOP-controlled FCC last week blocked part of the rule from taking effect while it considered revamping the entire measure. But congressional action would speed the process along." [Congressional Quarterly, 3/9/17]
Sen. Markey (D-MA): "Consumers Will Have No Ability To Stop Internet Service Providers From Invading Their Privacy And Selling Sensitive Information." According to Congressional Quarterly, "'Consumers will have no ability to stop internet service providers from invading their privacy and selling sensitive information about their health, finances, and children to advertisers, insurers, data brokers or others who can profit off of this personal information, all without their affirmative consent,' Markey added. 'I strongly oppose this resolution, and will fight to ensure that consumers, not broadband companies, have control over their personal, sensitive information.'" [Congressional Quarterly, 3/9/17]